Just a brief note from the class of FIRE 2013.
I absolutely love how the cohort of 2018 uses the word 'downshift' to talk about options that are in between working flat out and yanking back on the Lazy-Boy chair lever. I've seen my partner learn to love work again when it is a day a week as a fractional IT director for a local non-profit. Its also quite cool that you guys are doing earnest planning but not expecting all the lights to be green before you FIRE. And, great use of descriptive English and metaphors (or similes?) like popping the chute, hitting the exit, pulling the lever.
And one comment, looking back to when I was deciding to FIRE. I was concerned with whether my assets were sufficient and what to spend when. I understand now that the financial lingo and methods around scaffolding assets is purposefully and needlessly complex. Financially, the most important thing for me and partner has been having a simple financial strategy (spend on what we value, adjust spending as needed, preserve tax-sheltered assets). Having free time, an analytical bent, creativity and willingness to be curious solves for all else.